Just weeks before MAPIC, ACROSS ACADEMY once again brings together Europe’s leading retail real estate decision-makers for an exclusive executive discussion. CEO Perspectives – Setting the Stage for MAPIC offers first-hand insights into the priorities, expectations and outlook of some of the industry’s most influential leaders as they prepare for the sector’s most important annual gathering.
The session is part of the Retail Talks presented by ACROSS ACADEMY, a series of online C-level discussions addressing key topics in the retail real estate industry. The format is designed as a focused, high-level exchange among experienced practitioners.
THE TOPIC
Every autumn, MAPIC becomes the industry’s meeting point. But before Europe’s retail real estate leaders gather in Cannes, one question matters most: Where does the market really stand?
Which retail formats are delivering the strongest performance? Where are investment and leasing opportunities emerging? How are operators responding to changing consumer expectations, rising operating costs and an increasingly selective investment environment? And what priorities are shaping CEOs’ strategies for 2027?
CEO Perspectives – Setting the Stage for MAPIC brings together three of Europe’s leading retail real estate executives for an open discussion on the opportunities, challenges and strategic decisions currently shaping the industry. Rather than looking back, the conversation focuses on what lies ahead and the topics that are likely to define this year’s MAPIC.
The discussion will be hosted by Klaus Striebich, Managing Director of RaRE Advise, and Reinhard Winiwarter, Publisher of ACROSS Magazine.
THE PANEL
Three of Europe’s leading retail real estate executives will share their perspectives. Confirmed participants are:
IAN SANDFORD
President, Eurofund Group
Ian Sandford has led Eurofund Group since 2015 and is responsible for the company’s strategic direction across its international portfolio. Under his leadership, Eurofund expanded its focus on mixed-use destinations and urban regeneration projects while strengthening its presence in Spain, Portugal, Italy, Germany and the UK.
Sandford is recognized for his expertise in creating destination-led developments that combine retail, leisure, hospitality and residential uses.
MAREK NOETZEL
Chief Executive Officer, NEPI Rockcastle
Marek Noetzel became CEO of NEPI Rockcastle in 2026, following several years as the company’s Chief Operating Officer. He oversees one of Central and Eastern Europe’s largest portfolios of shopping centers and retail destinations.
Throughout his career, Noetzel has held senior leadership positions at ECE Marketplaces and other major retail real estate companies, bringing extensive operational and strategic expertise to the industry’s evolving landscape.
CRISTINA SANTOS
Executive Director Property Management & Leasing, Sonae Sierra
Cristina Santos is responsible for property management and leasing activities across Sonae Sierra’s international portfolio.
With extensive experience in asset management, commercial strategy and shopping center operations, she has played a key role in enhancing the performance and long-term value of mixed-use and retail destinations throughout Europe.
REGISTRATION & PARTICIPATION
Participation is open to a registered audience and is free of charge.
📅 Date: 20 October 2026
⏰ Time: 15:00–16:00 CET
📍Loction: Zoom
A recording will be made available after the event, and the key insights will be summarized in a follow-up article on ACROSS.
